1. State the problem: We are given two bags of chips, one 12 ounces costing 3.96 and another 16 ounces costing 5.28. We want to find which bag is the better deal by comparing the cost per ounce. 2. Calculate cost per ounce for the 12-ounce bag: $$\frac{3.96}{12} = 0.33$$ dollars per ounce. 3. Calculate cost per ounce for the 16-ounce bag: $$\frac{5.28}{16} = 0.33$$ dollars per ounce. 4. Conclusion: Both bags cost the same amount per ounce, 0.33 dollars, so neither is a better deal based on cost per ounce. They are equally priced.